Tesla has unofficially launched a new low-end model of its most popular Model Y, called the Model Y Standard, to make the popular crossover more affordable. Although maintaining the overall silhouette and performance DNA of the current Model Y, the Standard trim comes in the updated design and reduced features to reach a reduced price point. To dissect the changes and compare them to the regular Model Y, then, let’s do so.
Front-End Design Changes
The most prominent changes are visible at the front. The headlights have since become a single-piece unit, unlike the split-style design used on present versions of the Model Y. In contrast to the updated trims, the new Standard lacks a light bar on the front, which has been used as one of the distinguishing features of the new Tesla designs.
Rather, the front bumper curves more up in the middle, where the light bar would be. The general structure of the bumper design is smoother and simpler, which is a definite indication of low-end polish. The bottom part of the bumper is widened and stretched towards the sides, giving it a slightly broader and more sporty appearance, although the styling might seem more subdued.
@SawyerMerritt spotted an uncovered cheaper Model Y variant driving near Giga Texas pic.twitter.com/Fy6devXree
— Ryan Mable (@RyanMable) October 2, 2025
Rear-End Updates
The rear has also been reworked by Tesla, but the changes are less obvious there. The tail lights now adopt the shape of an L and abandon the light bar linking the two sides. The textured gray trim present on the older Model Ys is eliminated, and in its place is a higher set of body panels that runs deeper into the rear bumper.
Although the shape of the bumper changes, its original shape remains the same. The other minor change is the rear glass: the corner of the rear window has been rounded, an allusion to the original Model Y appearance.
Side Profile and Wheels
On the side, the silhouette is very similar. Tesla has retained the identical door shapes, windows, and side-view mirrors as the superior trims. The greatest variance is on the wheels, where the Standard features new 18-inch Aperture wheels, making the car look a little more earthbound in its appearance than the bigger, sportier wheels in higher-level trims.
Roof Design
One of the largest differences is the roof: rather than the large glass roof that has turned into a signature of Tesla interiors, the Standard trim features what Tesla refers to as a closed glass roof. It is a roof that has retained a glass finish on the outside, but with a conventional headliner on the inside, a simpler and less practical solution, which probably helps with weight loss and saves money.
Interior Simplifications
The Standard model cuts several interior luxuries. According to the information that leaked out of the code of Tesla’s code, the car will have:
- 7-speaker sound system
- Dual-tone seats
- Both side mirrors and the steering wheel are manually adjusted
- Second-row seats can be folded manually
- Something less decorative than wood or aluminum ornamentation
- One front touchscreen 15.4 inches with no second row
- Manual second-row air vents
The Model Y Standard also does not have Matrix headlights, yet it does have the conveniences of auto high beams.
Pricing and Market Position
The most exciting news is likely the price. The Model Y Standard will likely begin at approximately $39,990 and will become the cheapest crossover Tesla has made so far. This is strategically lower than the currently offered Model Y Long Range and Performance trims and targets purchasers who desire the Tesla experience without having to strain their pocketbook.
The car is still very practical even with the diminished functions. It has 75 cubic feet of cargo capabilities, one cubic foot short of the standard Model Y. Tesla also features a particulate air filter, but does not have the larger HEPA-grade “Bioweapon Defense Mode” filter that premium models have.
